Observer Program

Thank you for your interest in the UCLA School of Dentistry’s Observer Program.

The School of Dentistry does not offer a formal exchange program. However, you are welcome to visit our campus if you have been pre-approved. The Observer Program is designed for current dental students in good academic standing who are in their third or fourth year of dental school and are interested in applying to specialty programs. In addition, we welcome International dental students interested in observing in a U.S. dental school to participate (does not apply to oral and maxillofacial surgery program). International dental students who are in their intern year are not eligible for this program. Please keep in mind you are only allowed to observe for one week maximum – no exceptions.

** Dentists who hold their dental degree are not eligible for this program (International and Domestic) **

Please note: If accepted, you will not be permitted to engage in patient treatment or work in the student laboratories during your stay. You would be here solely as an observer. Please also understand that we cannot offer formal credit for your stay, and you will not be enrolled as a student. Submitting a request does not confirm your acceptance into the program until you receive an email confirmation from Maribel Cornejo.

We have eight specialty clinics to choose from below: (You may observe in no more than 2 clinics within your desired dates)

  • Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) - Westwood location only 

  • Advanced Prosthodontics (2 day maximum) - must provide CV and short personal statement

  • Endodontics

  • General Practice Residency (GPR)

  • Orofacial Pain & Dysfunction (Only Monday, Wednesday and Friday's)

  • Orthodontics

  • Pediatrics - Westwood Location only (No observers during July & August)

  • Periodontics

*** We ask that you not make travel arrangements without receiving the appropriate approval, as we will not be able to accommodate your visit ** Please submit your application within 1-3 months prior to your desired dates for processing. There are no fees to participate in the observer program. 

Living Accommodations

You would be responsible for finding your own living accommodations. UCLA cannot accommodate non-students with campus housing. If you elect to visit our campus we would forward a listing of hotels/inns/hostels in and around the area not far from the UCLA campus that have bus lines that go directly to and from UCLA.

Applying to the Program

  1. Submit a completed application form

  2. Current TB immunization (no more than 3 months prior to your visit)  

  3. Forward your application to:
    Observer Program
    UCLA School of Dentistry
    Student Affairs Office
    10833 Le Conte Ave, A0-111 CHS
    Los Angeles, CA 90095-1762
    Fax: (310) 825-9808

Only complete applications will be considered. Should you have any questions about the program or your application, please contact Maribel Cornejo at mcornejo@dentistry.ucla.edu or (310) 825-9789.

 

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Program

The OMS Extern/Observer program is designed for US and Canadian dental students (only) who are applying to the OMS residency program. This program does not accept international dental students. If you are a US or Canadian dental student and fit this description contact Ms. Kristina Etchison via email for an application packet and instructions: ketchison@dentistry.ucla.edu.